'A no-brainer': Joseph ends move speculation and re-signs for Bath

Jonathan Joseph has ended speculation that his future lies away from Bath as the midfielder became the second England international to put pen to paper on a contract extension at The Rec in the past 24 hours. Prop Beno Obano agreed a deal on Wednesday and now Joseph has followed suit despite being linked with a move elsewhere. 

Toulon, in particular, were said to be in the hunt for the centre as the soon to be 31-year-old hasn't been capped by England since November 2020. However, all that speculation has now been put to bed as the 2017 Lions tourist has decided his future will be best served at Bath, the club he has been with since his 2013 switch from London Irish. 

Joseph said: "When I came to Bath, it was a no-brainer for me as a young player to become part of this great club and I feel the same having re-signed. I’m very grateful to still be here after nine years.

"I was quite naïve when I was younger, and I don’t think I realised the effect I could have on people. I feel I have developed into a person and a player who has a much better understanding of my presence and how I can positively effect what is quite a young group.

"I want to be the person that helps our younger players come through and give advice to help promote their growth as well as impact matches with my own performances too."

Current head coach Neal Hatley, who will become forwards coach next season to facilitate the arrival of new head coach Johann van Graan, added: "I’ve been fortunate to work with JJ since he was 17. He is an integral part of our club and remains one of the best defensive 13s in the country. It is outstanding to have someone not just with his defensive qualities but his attacking ability and experience in our squad.

"He will continue to play a role helping develop the younger men like Max Ojomoh, Cam Redpath and Will Butt whilst performing to the highest level. We are delighted he will be staying with us."